Tel Aviv, 17 March (H.S.): Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended heartfelt Nowruz greetings to the Iranian people on Monday, invoking themes of light triumphing over darkness as his nation intensifies military operations against Tehran.

In a poignant video message, Netanyahu wished Iranians a joyful Persian New Year, commencing with the Chaharshanbe Suri festival of fire and light on Wednesday, followed by Nowruz proper on Friday. He articulated, To the brave people of Iran, I wish you, as I do every year, a happy holiday season, beginning with the Festival of Lights, emphasizing the ancient belief that light will triumph over darkness, that good will triumph over evil. This year's message, he noted, carries profound resonance, offering a year of freedom and a new beginning of hope.

The address arrives against a backdrop of heightened tensions, with Israel pressing its campaign in the ongoing war with Iran, including recent strikes that have fueled speculation about Netanyahu's own safety. Earlier rumors of his demise were quashed by this appearance, alongside prior footage featuring him with IDF personnel, underscoring his resolve amid swirling disinformation.

Netanyahu has made such overtures to Iranians an annual tradition, often targeting dissidents opposed to the Islamic Republic's clerical regime; in a March 7 press conference, he urged them to seize the moment of truth and cast off tyranny for renewed friendship between the nations.

This gesture contrasts sharply with broader regional volatility, including U.S. President Donald Trump's warnings that a nuclear-armed Iran could blow up the entire Middle East, calls to designate Iran's military and Hezbollah as terrorist entities, and reports of direct U.S.-Iran contacts alongside efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Netanyahu's words thus blend cultural outreach with strategic messaging, positioning Israel as a beacon for Iranian aspirations while prosecuting the conflict.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar